Methodist liberal arts university in Athens, Tennessee, founded 1857, offering 30+ undergraduate and graduate programs.
Tennessee Wesleyan offers Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in 20+ majors including Behavioral Science, Biology, Business Administration, Chemistry, Communication, Criminal Justice, Education, English, Exercise Science, Fine Art, Music, History, Mathematics, Nursing, Psychology, Social Work, and Special Education. Graduate programs include Master of Arts in Teaching, Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Education, Master of Science in Nursing, Master of Occupational Therapy, and Master of Science in Sport Leadership. The university maintains articulation agreements with six regional community colleges and operates branch campuses in Knoxville and Cleveland for nursing and business programs.
The main campus is located two blocks from downtown Athens, Tennessee, on a small-city campus. Students can participate in 25+ clubs and organizations, Greek life, outdoor recreation, and spiritual life programs. The university features on-campus housing and dining, with additional support through the Mosher Success Center, peer tutoring, and success coaching. A Kilbride Nature Sanctuary is available for outdoor activities.
Tennessee Wesleyan accepts 62% of applicants and is considered selective by U.S. News & World Report. The university offers multiple pathways including Freshman Admissions, Transfer Admissions, Dual Enrollment, Degree Completion, Graduate Admissions, and International Admissions. Individual campus visits, open houses, and transfer-specific events are available for prospective students.
The university's athletic teams, the Bulldogs, compete in 21 NAIA varsity sports within the Appalachian Athletic Conference. The baseball program has won the NAIA World Series three times and 24 conference championships. Notable alumni include MLB pitcher Tom Browning, NFL center Aaron Grant, and federal judge Xenophon Hicks.